Frederick "Bill" Rickard

MORTON – Frederick W. "Bill" Rickard, 85, of Morton, IL, passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

Bill was born on October 24, 1940, in East Galesburg, IL, to Frederick S. and Violet (White) Rickard. He married Mary Lou Wilson on April 26, 1958 in Burlington, IA. He later married Kathleen Thomas on November 22, 1974 in Peoria, IL. She preceded him in death on January 24, 2022.

Surviving are his daughters, Luan (Wayne) Statham of Galesburg, IL, Kirsten (Michael) Schaub of Morton, IL; sons, Keith (Michelle) Rickard of Knoxville, IL, Tim (Dawn) Rickard of Gilson, IL, 11 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews; and one sister, Betty Carlson of Galesburg, IL.

Bill was preceded in death by both parents; a son, Kevin B. Rickard; and two brothers, James Rickard and Harold Rickard.

Bill served in the U.S. Marine Corps in San Diego, CA from 1958-1964. He was a proud veteran, always wearing his Marine Corp hat. He enjoyed gardening, reading, and spending time with family. Bill was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. He enjoyed singing and listening to music. He made a 45 record with "Good Luck Charm" on one side and "And I Love You So" on the other side, in Memphis in 1975.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton. Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Burial will be at Roberts Cemetery in Morton.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Runner's Association and Wounded Warrior Project.

Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton is handling arrangements.

To leave an online condolence for the family visit www.knappjohnson.com.